Latest published book …

Inspired by …

The idea for this book came from a project I was given while I was applying to graduate school. We were given three prompts, one of which was actually the number three. Although The Importance of Being Three is different from my original concept, I would never have created the book had it not been for that initial idea. From there the book developed into the concept of what it’s like to be a certain age, the type of milestones associated with that age, as well as the challenges. I’ve always been interested in patterns, and loved the idea of merging being three-years-old and things that come in threes.

Art medium used …

Cut paper, pencil, and ink.

Artistic process …

First I write, then I draw. Always. I work much better with an initial narrative. Many times the story changes while I draw as I piece together what is needed in the text vs. the illustrations. Sketching is an editing process for my writing in many ways. Once I have solid thumbnails worked out I graduate to full-scale drawings on tracing paper. The tracing paper allows me to transfer my sketches to the various papers I use for the finished art. I collect vintage, found, and recycled paper to create my illustrations, most of which would end up in the garbage otherwise. I feel that it adds dimension to my work, as you can look at the illustrations as a whole and then upon closer inspection see various details hidden within the paper itself. All of my illustrations are created traditionally, although I have been tempted to compile my collages digitally, I’ve never done it. I love the tangible feel of a finished piece of artwork too much.

Favorite place to create & illustrate …

My studio in the third-floor attic of my hundred-year-old house.

Most used art supply or tool …

Definitely scissors. I’ve used the same pair on every single book. I’m a bit superstitious about them.

Connect with Lindsay Ward …

Publisher’s Synopsis: The perfect present for three-year-olds, this picture book is a celebration of all things three!
All the best things come in threes, not one, not two, but three, like the three-year-olds in this sweet picture book. As all parents know, three is a big year. Follow along as three friends learn new things in threes—from tricycles to triangles—take a dip in the pool, and play in the park with their friends! Of course, it’s not all fun and games. There’s a tantrum and then hugs all around as the three kids head to bed.

This adorable picture book celebrating important life events is the perfect gift for third birthdays. Kids will love pointing out all the activities they can do now that they are three years old.

Ages 1-3 | Publisher: Dial Books | 2016 | ISBN-13: 978-0525428695

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Discover more picture book illustration inspiration and books like “The Importance of Being Three,” written and illustrated by Lindsay Ward, on The Children’s Book Review by following along with our Illustration Inspiration series and articles tagged with Gift Books and Picture Books.

Bianca Schulze is the founder of The Children’s Book Review. She is a reader, reviewer, mother and children’s book lover. She also has a decade’s worth of experience working with children in the great outdoors. Combined with her love of books and experience as a children’s specialist bookseller, the goal is to share her passion for children’s literature to grow readers. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, she now lives with her husband and three children near Boulder, Colorado.